New Chargers coach Mike McCoy has hired a Super Bowl-winning playcaller as his offensive coordinator.

Ken Whisenhunt and the Chargers have reached an agreement that will bring the former Cardinals coach to San Diego.

Last week, the Chargers interviewed Whisenhunt for their head coaching job. They rated him the top alternative to McCoy.

Unlike his predecessor Norv Turner -- San Diego's head coach from 2007-12 -- McCoy will have his offensive coordinator call the plays.

Whisenhunt, who played tight end for three NFL teams, was the offensive coordinator to Steelers coach Bill Cowher from 2004-06, including a Super Bowl winner in 2005.

He then joined the Cardinals as their head coach and reached the Super Bowl in his second year. After Arizona's 5-11 season in 2012, he was fired.

McCoy, a first-year head coach, said it's critical that he trust his staff.

"There’s going to be something I’m going learn every day – but that’s why you surround yourself with good people," he said after assuming the job on Tuesday. "When you have people that know more than you in certain areas, you lean on them and that’s what we’re going to do."